"Andray Blatche has openly expressed his desire to play for the Philippines. He is in a position, at age 28, to make significant contributions to Philippine basketball and accordingly, eligible for the conferment of the honor of being a Philippine citizen," Angara said.

…

"Blatche is possibly the best center from the NBA that we can get who is willing to shun more lucrative offers now and in the future just to be part of our national team," stressed Angara, who said that the Brooklyn Nets big man's documents will now be transmitted to the Office of the President for the chief executive's signing.

"Possibly the best center from the NBA that we can get who is willing to shun more lucrative offers." Quite the endorsement. But seriously, Blatche should be a tremendous boost to Gilas Pilipinas on the inside in August's FIBA World Cup. He will immediately become their No. 1 option in the post.